Bush denounces Mideast extremists

JERUSALEM (AP) Marking the 60th anniversary of Israel’s founding, President Bush today criticized the deadly tactics of extremist groups and denounced anti-Semitism, especially by those who want to wipe the nation “off the map.”

“We believe that religious liberty is fundamental to civilized society, so we condemn anti-Semitism in all forms whether by those who openly question Israel’s right to exist, or by others who quietly excuse them,” Mr. Bush said.

In a speech to the Knesset, or parliament, Mr. Bush asserted that the United States has an unbreakable bond with Israel. He said Americans believe that Israel has a right to defend itself from extremists and “killers pledged to its destruction.”

“Some people suggest that if the United States would just break ties with Israel, all our problems in the Middle East would go away,” Mr. Bush said. “This is a tired argument that buys into the propaganda of the enemies of peace and America utterly rejects it. Israel’s population may be just over 7 million. But when you confront terror and evil, you are 307 million strong, because the United States of America stands with you.”

Mr. Bush’s five-day Mideast journey, which was to take him to Saudi Arabia and Egypt, represents another effort to push Mideast peace talks forward as his time in office winds down.

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, who spoke before Mr. Bush, said his nation is ready for peace and that he is working on the U.S. vision of an Israeli-Palestinian peace agreement. Olmert said he is committed to carrying out the American president’s vision of forming an independent Palestinian state next to Israel. And when a deal is reached, Olmert says the divided parliament and Israeli public will rally behind it.

The chamber reacted with silence and nervous laughter, then Mr. Bush began to laugh. Two hardline lawmakers walked out of the chamber in protest. As Mr. Bush began speaking, three lawmakers held up pieces of papers with the message, “We shall overcome.” Security guards approached them and led them from the chamber.

Mr. Bush began his address by exclaiming, “Yom Atzmaut Sameach,” or “Happy Independence Day.” He spoke of Israeli history and said that the United States will stand with the Israelis against terrorism and extremism. “We will never let down our guard or lose our resolve,” he said.

Mr. Bush took special aim at Iran, saying the United States stands with Israel in opposing moves by Tehran to obtain nuclear weapons.

“Permitting the world’s leading sponsor of terror to possess the world’s deadliest weapons would be an unforgivable betrayal for future generations,” the president said. “For the sake of peace, the world must not allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.”